I just got a new chevy 2500hd at work which replaced a '00 F150. The F150 had the 4.2 v6 and I never had a single problem out of it. It had 150k when they gave me the new one. In alot of ways I liked the ford better than the new chevy, but my employer got alot cheaper price from chevy.

As far as the f150, it had a transmission and clutch put in it at 100k, but I kept it full of equipment. I'm a heat/air tech and it was OVERLOADED from day one. Average mileage was 12. Simply too much weight for the five speed and v6.

I agree with others on the used part. The 92-96 trucks are plentiful and they are built strong. If I was buying I would find one with the 300 six and automatic. Goobs of low end torque and good mpg. I've had 3 in the past and two had the 300 and the other had a 302. I prefred the 300.

If you have to go new, do as suggested, research. To find one without a/c, your gonna be lucky or have to order it. The ford is my choice, but that is partly due to personal preference.